Numbers 7:61

His offering was one silver platter weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel and filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering;

Study Bible

his offering
The phrase "his offering" refers to the personal and voluntary contribution made by a leader of Israel during the dedication of the altar. In Hebrew, the word for offering is "קָרְבָּן" (korban), which signifies something brought near to God. This reflects the heart of worship, where offerings are not merely material gifts but acts of devotion and submission to God. The personal nature of "his offering" underscores the importance of individual responsibility and participation in communal worship.

one silver dish
The "silver dish" is a significant item in the offering, symbolizing wealth and purity. Silver, in biblical times, was a precious metal often associated with redemption and refinement. The Hebrew word for dish, "קְעָרָה" (qe'arah), suggests a shallow bowl used for holding offerings. This dish, being made of silver, indicates the value and honor given to God in the act of worship.

weighing a hundred and thirty shekels
The specific weight of "a hundred and thirty shekels" highlights the precision and care in the offerings made to God. The shekel, a standard unit of weight in ancient Israel, was used in the sanctuary to ensure fairness and consistency. This precision reflects the importance of integrity and exactness in our offerings to God, reminding believers that God values both the heart and the substance of our gifts.

one silver bowl of seventy shekels
The "silver bowl" complements the dish, with its weight of "seventy shekels" further emphasizing the substantial nature of the offering. The Hebrew word for bowl, "מִזְרָק" (mizraq), often refers to a vessel used in sacrificial rituals. The use of silver and the specific weight again underscore the themes of purity, value, and dedication in worship.

according to the sanctuary shekel
The phrase "according to the sanctuary shekel" indicates that the weights used were standardized by the tabernacle, ensuring that all offerings were measured by the same divine standard. This standardization reflects God's unchanging nature and the call for His people to adhere to His established guidelines, promoting fairness and unity in worship.

both of them full of fine flour mixed with oil
The offering being "full of fine flour mixed with oil" represents a grain offering, which in Hebrew is "מִנְחָה" (minchah). Fine flour symbolizes the best of human labor and effort, while oil often represents the Holy Spirit and anointing. Together, they signify a life dedicated to God, filled with the Spirit, and offered in service and worship.

for a grain offering
The "grain offering" was a common form of sacrifice in ancient Israel, symbolizing thanksgiving and dedication to God. It was a non-blood offering, emphasizing the believer's commitment to God through daily sustenance and provision. This offering points to the importance of gratitude and the acknowledgment of God's provision in our lives, encouraging believers to live lives of continual thanksgiving and service.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ahiezer
- The leader of the tribe of Dan, who presented the offering on the tenth day.

2. Tribe of Dan
- One of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its role in the settlement of the Promised Land.

3. Tabernacle
- The portable dwelling place for the divine presence, where offerings were made.

4. Sanctuary Shekel
- A standard unit of weight used in the tabernacle for offerings.

5. Grain Offering
- A type of offering made to God, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order and Obedience
The structured presentation of offerings by each tribe underscores the importance of order and obedience in worship. Each leader followed God's instructions precisely, reflecting a heart of submission and reverence.

Symbolism of the Grain Offering
The grain offering, made of fine flour and oil, symbolizes dedication and thanksgiving. It reminds believers of the need to offer their best to God, not just in material terms but in their daily lives and actions.

Unity in Diversity
Each tribe brought similar offerings, yet each was unique in its presentation. This reflects the unity and diversity within the body of Christ, where each member contributes uniquely to the whole.

Generosity and Sacrifice
The weight and value of the offerings indicate a significant sacrifice. This teaches believers about the importance of generosity and the willingness to give sacrificially to God's work.

The Role of Leadership in Worship
Ahiezer, as a leader, set an example for his tribe. This highlights the responsibility of leaders to guide their communities in faithful worship and service to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the structured order of offerings in Numbers 7 reflect God's character and expectations for worship?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the grain offering be applied to our daily lives and spiritual practices?

3. How does the concept of unity in diversity, as seen in the offerings of the tribes, apply to the modern church?

4. What lessons can we learn from the sacrificial nature of the offerings about our own giving and generosity?

5. How can leaders today emulate the example of Ahiezer in guiding their communities in worship and service?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:9
- This verse describes the pattern of the tabernacle, connecting to the offerings made for its service.

Leviticus 2:1-16
- Details the grain offering, providing context for the type of offering Ahiezer presented.

Hebrews 9:1-5
- Discusses the earthly sanctuary, connecting the Old Testament tabernacle to New Testament teachings.

1 Chronicles 12:35
- Mentions the tribe of Dan, highlighting its role and contributions to Israel.